School gives youngsters a splashing time

YOUNGSTERS with physical disabilities and developmental delay can benefit from free use of a school s swimming pool. Richard Palmer, headteacher of St Christopher School in Letchworth GC, has offered weekly free use of the school s pool after he was conta

YOUNGSTERS with physical disabilities and developmental delay can benefit from free use of a school's swimming pool.

Richard Palmer, headteacher of St Christopher School in Letchworth GC, has offered weekly free use of the school's pool after he was contacted by Ceri Collins, regional co-ordinator of Brainwave - a charity that helps families who have children with physical disabilities and developmental delay.

She said: "The families are delighted and I cannot get over the school's generosity."

Letchworth resident Claire Palmer, 32, has three children - Joshua Merrifield, seven, and twin toddlers Louie and Harry Shrimpton, aged 22 months.

The twins both have cerebral palsy and Claire is delighted they will now be able to use the school's pool.

She said: "It's good for them because children with cerebral palsy struggle with mobility.

"In water they can move more freely but in a public pool it can be difficult if able-bodied people are splashing around."

The pool will be available to all children under seven who have special needs and developmental delay through brain injury and genetic conditions.

The first weekly session takes place from 3pm to 3.45pm this Sunday.

There are limited places available so contact Ceri Collins on 01462 483402 for more information and to reserve a place.